Long's Ireland Call Makes Up for Missing Family Wedding

Kevin Long is set to miss his brother's wedding after getting his first international call-up.

But the Clarets' defender believes Daniel will forgive him if he ends the summer with a Republic of Ireland cap.

"I think I will miss it. He won't be too happy, but if I play a game he'll be all right," said Long, who was due to be a groomsman at the ceremony next month.

"I was also supposed to be going to Marbella with the family, but I'm sure they won't mind if I get a cap.

"I spoke to my parents and all my brothers and everyone is buzzing."

Long has been named in a 37-man squad by Ireland boss Martin O'Neill for friendlies against Mexico and Uruguay and a World Cup qualifier against Austria in Dublin.

The friendly against Mexico is in the United States, ruling Long out of his wedding duties.

But his inclusion in a senior squad for the first time is more than adequate compensation and caps a memorable end to the season for the 26-year-old.

Long has made his first two Premier League starts this month - helping Burnley get the point they needed to secure Premier League status in a 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion - with his elevation to first-team duty earning the Clarets' longest serving player his welcome surprise.